Aluminum: New challenges in downstream activities

Abstract

During its history, aluminum’s attractive features, such as high strength-to-weight ratio, good electrical mass conductivity, and unique corrosion behavior, have led to a spectacular expansion in its use. The role of aluminum in non-aluminum-based materials is also very important; its contribution to the improvement of magnesium and titanium alloys and to highly complex packaging materials are some of the noteworthy examples. Significant cost reductions on the basic metal production level, near-to-shape fabricating methods, and the well-functioning recycling system are also major contributors to aluminum success. Imminent challenges for the industry are the need for products with very close tolerances on a mass fabricating repetitive basis and just-in-time delivery to original-equipment manufacturers and small users through distributors. A significant part of the challenges remains in the applications area, particularly automotive and aerospace.